What is Drug Trafficking?

Drug trafficking laws regulate and punish the selling, importing, distributing, and manufacturing of a controlled substance. Another type of drug crime involves transporting a controlled substance. In California, ketamine is a Schedule I controlled substance in California and is illegal to transport.

How Is Drug Transportation Defined in California?

In California, transporting ketamine is to move it from one location to another. But the law doesn’t require the distance between locations to be a certain amount. The defendant can be charged with transporting a controlled substance from one room to another or from Los Angeles to Sacramento.

Does Transporting a Controlled Substance in California Involve Selling or Giving Away the Drug?

No. To sell ketamine means the defendant wanted something of value in exchange for the drug, which is another charge. While transporting only means to move the drug from one place to another.

Is This Charge the Same as Possessing Ketamine?

No. Transporting ketamine is a felony while possessing ketamine is a misdemeanor charge. Possession also refers to unlawfully having the drug in a useable amount, and often for personal use.

What Kind of Time Can I Get For Transporting Ketamine in California?

The charge of transport of ketamine is a felony and can count against the defendant as a strike on their record. If convicted, a defendant can face 3 to 5 years in prison.

Are There Any Defenses I Can Use to Fight My Drug Charge?

Yes. Transporting drug defenses are available and they depend on the facts of the case.

Should I Talk to a Lawyer about Fight My Drug Charge?

Yes. Transporting ketamine is a serious charge with years in prison at stake. Contact a criminal lawyer about helping with your case.